The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a flood alert in the North East Region of Ghana following a notification from Burkina Faso that the Bagre Dam will be opened from Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The planned spillage is expected to increase the volume of water entering Ghana through the White Volta River and its tributaries.
Communities at Risk
NADMO has urged residents, farmers, fishermen, herdsmen, and other persons operating in vulnerable areas to take immediate precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property. The organisation has warned that communities located along riverbanks and flood-prone areas may experience rising water levels, which could result in flooding.
NADMO's North East Regional Office has issued an alert advising residents to move to safer areas before the situation worsens. The organisation has cautioned against entering river channels and floodplains for farming, fishing, animal grazing, or other activities. "Do not farm, fish, graze animals, or undertake any activity within river channels and floodplains," NADMO cautioned.
Farmers Warned to Harvest Crops Early
Farmers whose farms are located along riverbanks have been encouraged to take steps to harvest their crops early where necessary to minimise losses. "Farmers farming along the river banks are advised to harvest their farm produce earlier when necessary before the dam is spilt," NADMO said.
The organisation has also urged residents to move valuables, foodstuffs, livestock, and farm equipment away from areas considered vulnerable to flooding. It has warned the public not to attempt crossing flooded roads, rivers, streams, or bridges, while calling for strict compliance with safety directives issued by NADMO, the security agencies, district assemblies, and other relevant authorities.
Public Education Intensified
NADMO has directed district offices across the North East Region to intensify public education and sensitisation, particularly in communities located along the White Volta and other vulnerable waterways. The organisation will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to the public as developments unfold.
As the Bagre Dam is set to be opened, the people of Ghana's North East Region are bracing themselves for potential flooding. The region's residents have been warned to take immediate action to safeguard their lives and property. With the planned spillage expected to increase the volume of water entering Ghana, the situation is being closely monitored by NADMO and other relevant authorities.
Source: Joy Online
